Office of Teaching and Learning 614-365-5727

Professional Development Opportunities

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Gizmos, 5th-8th grade only:

The district has purchased Gizmos for 5th-8th grade science. Gizmos are interactive science simulations that use an inquiry-based learning approach. Please come check out this new engaging resource to help your students understand difficult science concepts and prepare for the state test. New training dates will be added soon.

There are 2 types of training:

Beginners- How to use Gizmos resources and tools to adapt lessons to meet standards

Advanced- Learn to use Gizmos simulations in classroom discussions, for whole and small group, and develop customized 5E lessons

Get the most out of your Gizmos by attending both sessions!

February 7, 2017 4:30-6:30 PM ADVANCED

Linmoor Educational Center,2001 Hamilton Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

Edcite Training:

February 21, 2017 4:30-6:00 PM

Cedarwood Elementary 775 Bartfield Dr., Columbus, OH 43207

This training is for any content area teacher looking for online practice for their students. Edcite is a website with a large bank of questions for science, social studies, math, and reading.

Integrating Reading, Social Studies and Science - Grades 3-5:

February 23, 2017 4:30-6:30 PM

Lindbergh Elementary, 2541 Lindbergh Dr., Columbus, OH 43223

This professional learning opportunity will focus on integrating reading, social studies, and science. The session will incorporate time to investigate grade level materials included in the new reading series, as well as, other supplemental material that support both social studies and science integration. Participants will receive a set of small group reading materials for social studies.

2017 Conservation Poster Contest

2017 Conservation Poster Contest February, 27—March 24, 2017

Franklin Soil and Water is sponsoring the annual conservation poster contest. This annual contest gives students the opportunity to better appreciate our environment through the creation of an original artwork. The theme “Healthy Soils are Full of Life” highlights the fact that productive soils are the foundation of any healthy ecosystem. Teachers will be provided with background material to help inform students about this topic and inspire ideas. The contest will run from February 27th through March 24th, winners will be announced in April around Earth Day. The deadline to register is February 24th. To register your class, or for more information, contact Linda Pettit at:

Weather lore says that the groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, emerges from its burrow to look for its shadow on this day after a long winter sleep. If it fails to see its shadow due to cloudy weather and stays above ground, this is an omen that winter will soon end. If, however, it is sunny and the groundhog does see its shadow, it will retreat into its burrow. This is a sign of six more weeks of bad weather. Groundhog Day is a great time to discuss the concept of hibernation.

Roses smell sweet, but we all know they have thorns. Valentine's Day is the perfect time to teach your young learners about defense systems used by plants. Ask why roses have thorns and see if anyone can suggest other plants with defense systems.

February 20 - Presidents' Day

The national symbol of the United States is the American Bald Eagle. Ask your students to suggest other animals that could serve as the symbol for the United States and why they think so. Older students could research the bald eagle.

Science Passages on READWORKS!!!!

If you haven't signed up for your FREE ReadWorks account what are you waiting for?

ReadWorks.org has nonfiction and literary articles along with reading comprehension and vocabulary lessons, formative assessments, and teacher guidance. Everything ReadWorks does is based on proven cognitive science research.